Climate Jargon Buster is an educational resource dedicated to making the language of climate change accessible to everyone. Whether you are encountering climate terminology for the first time or looking for a clear explanation of a specific term, this site is here to help.
Our Purpose
Climate action affects every person, community and business in Ireland and beyond. Yet the terminology used in climate science, policy and reporting can be complex and intimidating. Words like "decarbonisation", "biogenic methane" and "scope 3 emissions" appear regularly in the news, in government documents and in workplace discussions - but they are rarely explained in plain language.
This website exists to bridge that gap. Every term on this site is explained in clear, everyday English so that anyone can understand what is being discussed and why it matters.
Background
The Climate Jargon Buster concept was originally developed by the Department of the Taoiseach in collaboration with young people from Comhairle na nÓg, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). The original project was created in response to feedback from young people about the barriers that complex climate terminology creates for public participation and engagement.
This website continues that mission by providing an updated and expanded collection of plain English explanations covering climate science, energy, biodiversity, transport, agriculture and policy.
Who Is This For?
- 🌿 Students and educators looking for clear explanations of climate concepts
- 🌿 Community groups engaging with local climate action plans
- 🌿 Business owners navigating new environmental regulations and reporting requirements
- 🌿 Journalists and communicators covering climate topics
- 🌿 Local councillors and public representatives involved in climate policy
- 🌿 Anyone who wants to better understand the climate conversation
Editorial Approach
All content on this site is written with clarity as the priority. Explanations are designed to describe ideas and concepts rather than to provide strict scientific definitions. Where relevant, Irish context is included - such as references to national targets, legislation and support schemes - to make the information as practical and useful as possible.
This site is independent and does not promote any political position, commercial product or service. The goal is simply to help people understand climate terminology so they can participate more fully in the conversation.
Get In Touch
If you have a question, a suggestion for a term we should add, or feedback on any of our explanations, please visit our Contact page. We welcome input from readers and are always looking to improve and expand this resource.